Acura RDX vs. BMW X3 vs Cadillac XT5 vs Lexus NX vs Mercedes-Benz GLB

Offering smart versatility, capable performance, and unparalleled luxury — compact luxury SUVs have quickly become a hit with drivers. With new entrants joining the segment each year, shoppers now have a variety of options to choose from. While finding the right model to suit your needs and lifestyle might seem difficult, Motorcars Acura wants to help clear up the confusion. In this competitive comparison, you’ll learn exactly how the Acura RDX measures up against its biggest rivals including the BMW X3, Cadillac XT5, Lexus NX, and Mercedes-Benz GLB.

Acura RDX vs The Competition – Quick Comparison

Acura RDX vs BMW X3

2026 Acura RDX Base SH-AWD	VS	2026 BMW X3 xDrive30i
$45,100*	MSRP*	$50,900*
272	Horsepower	255
10	Transmission Speeds	8
4,014 lbs	Curb Weight	4,176 lbs
Standard	Tire Fill Assistant	Not Available
6 Years / 70,000 Miles	Powertrain Warranty Coverage	4 Years / 50,000 Miles
Standard	Adaptive Cruise Control	Optional

First up to face off against the Acura RDX is the BMW X3. Right from the start, the RDX enjoys a significant price advantage over the X3 when comparing base trim levels. Value is just one key advantage that Acura holds over BMW. When it comes to performance, the X3 is simply no match for the RDX. In addition to significantly more horsepower, the Acura RDX also boasts a more advanced 10-speed automatic transmission for greater responsiveness and a lower curb weight that contributes to more agile handling.

Shifting our attention towards interior refinement, the Acura RDX continues to shine. Similarly, the standard adaptive cruise control system adds confidence and peace of mind behind the wheel. This great feature is yet another option that BMW X3 shoppers will have to shell out additional cash for. The clever Tire Fill Assistant feature found on the RDX is not available in any form on the X3. Finally, greater cargo room and a longer term of powertrain warranty coverage round out the extensive list of advantages for the Acura RDX.

Acura RDX vs Cadillac XT5

2026 Acura RDX Base SH-AWD	VS	2026 Cadillac XT5 Base AWD
$45,100*	MSRP*	$46,800*
272 HP / 280 LB-FT	Horsepower / Torque	235 HP / 258 LB-FT
10-Speed Automatic	Transmission	9-Speed Automatic
Standard	Adaptive Cruise Control	Requires Higher Trim Level
19-inch	Wheel Size	18-inch
Standard	Power Moonroof	Optional
Standard	Auto-Dimming Rear View Mirror	Not Available
Power 4-Way	Front Seat Lumbar Support	Not Available

Our next challenger to go up against the Acura RDX is the Cadillac XT5. Looking at base trim levels, the starting MSRP of the RDX is $1,700 less than the XT5. Outstanding value is a core strength of the RDX which we’ll investigate further.

Standard features found on the RDX add convenience, style, and confidence while Cadillac shoppers will have to reach deeper into their wallets in order to receive similar equipment. A power moonroof, front power lumbar support, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror are examples of standard features on the RDX. Larger 19-inch wheels offer a more stylish look than the 18-inch wheels on the Cadillac.

When it comes to performance and efficiency, the Acura RDX delivers more than the Cadillac XT5. Not only does the RDX have greater horsepower and torque than the XT5, but a more sophisticated 10-speed automatic transmission makes better use of that power.

Driver-assistive technologies help inspire confidence behind the wheel of the Acura RDX. Helpful in stop-and-go traffic, the RDX comes equipped with adaptive cruise control to help you maintain an appropriate following distance to the vehicle in front.

Acura RDX vs Lexus NX

2026 Acura RDX Base SH-AWD	VS	2026 Lexus NX 250 AWD
$45,100*	MSRP*	$42,415*
10	Transmission Speeds	8
19 inches	Wheel Size	18 inches
Standard	Power Moonroof	Optional
Driver	Seat Memory	Optional
58.9 cubic feet	Maximum Cargo Capacity	54.6 cubic feet
Standard	Over-the-Air Software Updates	Not Available
Standard	Tire Fill Assistant	Not Available
Standard	Capless Fueling System	Not Available
Standard	Interior Ambient Lighting	Not Available

Our next competitor to go up against the Acura RDX is the Lexus NX. Despite sharing similar performance specs, the more sophisticated 10-speed automatic transmission of the Acura RDX provides more responsive acceleration and greater agility. Its standard 19-inch wheels give it a commanding stance and eye-catching side profile.

When you choose the RDX, you’ll have access to an array of innovative technology features. Over-the-air software updates help ensure that you always enjoy the latest infotainment features while ambient lighting adds a tasteful accent to its premium interior. Clever features like a capless fueling system and tire fill assistant help simplify some of life’s daily inconveniences.

There are plenty of luxurious features that are included as standard inside the Acura RDX. The front seats feature heating and ventilation functions along with seat memory for the driver. A standard moonroof brings fresh air and sunlight into the cabin at the press of a button.

Acura RDX vs Mercedes-Benz GLB

2026 Acura RDX Base SH-AWD	VS	2026 Mercedes-Benz GLB 250 4MATIC SUV
$45,100*	MSRP*	$45,800*
272 HP / 280 LB-FT	Horsepower / Torque	221 HP / 258 LB-FT
10	Transmission Speeds	8
19 inches	Wheel Size	18 inches
Standard	Power Moonroof	Optional
Standard	Auto-Dimming Rear View Mirror	Optional
6 Years / 70,000 Miles	Powertrain Warranty Coverage	4 Years / 50,000 Miles
Standard	Traffic Sign Recognition	Not Available
First Visit	Complimentary Scheduled Maintenance	Not Available

Last up, we’ll investigate how the Acura RDX fares against the formidable Mercedes-Benz GLB. Beginning with performance, the GLB is simply no match for the superior horsepower, torque, and transmission included as standard with the RDX. Larger 19-inch alloy wheels give the RDX a more prominent stance on the road as well.

Inside the cabin, drivers will immediately be drawn to the impressive standard equipment of the RDX. Other premium amenities included as standard inside the RDX are a power moonroof, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and traffic sign recognition. All of these great features are either unavailable or require you to shell out additional cash at Mercedes-Benz. Finally, Acura delivers a longer powertrain warranty coverage term and a complimentary scheduled maintenance visit for long-lasting confidence and value.

After going head-to-head against the BMW X3, Cadillac XT5, Lexus NX, and Mercedes-Benz GLB — the winner of this competitive comparison is the Acura RDX. The competition simply cannot compete with the groundbreaking technology, premium standard features, exceptional value, and impressive efficiency found on the RDX. Motorcars Acura cordially invites you to come experience all that the Acura RDX has to offer.

*Prices shown are Acura suggested retail prices only and do not include taxes, license or destination and handling charge. Acura vehicle accessory costs, labor and installation vary. Dealers set their own prices. Please consult your selected dealer.